She achieved what many considered impossible — saving WH Smith from the fate
that struck many famous high street stalwarts — but now, after nine years at
the helm, Kate Swann has decided to step down.

True to form, she did so on a high, reporting a 10 per cent rise in annual
profits to £102 million. That figure compares with a £135 million loss in
2004. “It will be a wrench, but I think it’s the right time for the
business,” she said.

Ms Swann, 47, said she would leave next June, when she will be replaced by
Steve Clarke, who